Cover cropping is a great way to ensure that the hard work of developing healthy soil continues during the winter months. King Conservation District is offering free cover crop seed (crimson clover and yellow field peas) to King County backyard gardeners who have had their soil tested.

The seed may be picked up at the Auburn International Farmers Market on Sunday, Aug. 12, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. The market is at Les Gove Park, 910 Ninth St. SE, Auburn.

Cover crops help avoid soil compaction and erosion from winter rains, store important nutrients, suppress weeds and offer habitat and food to beneficial insects and pollinators.

Stop by their booth this week and find out more about cover cropping, how to support native pollinators and beneficial insects and pick up a free package of cover crop seeds. Be prepared to show a copy of your soil test – either in print form or as an email attachment on your smart phone to receive your package while supplies last.

Have not had your soil tested? There is still plenty of time to test this summer. Find soil testing information here and pick up your cover crop seed package at KCD’s office in Renton when you drop off your soil sample.